Often Irreverent, Mostly Rational Blog for Fans of the Toronto Blue Jays. One Day, We'll Be Perfect.

Thursday, May 20, 2010

Doing right by Ruiz

At the end of the day, the release of Randy Radames Ruiz was the best result for all parties involved - the Jays, Ruiz himself, and the fans.

Ruiz benefits from likely the biggest payday he'll ever see; though terms are unknown, it's sure to be more than the major league minimum, and for a soon-to-be 33 year old baseball player staring down his twilight years, that can't be overlooked. After 11 seasons scratching out a living as a minor leaguer (along with parts of seasons on the big league roster), Ruiz can do what he does best - hit bombs - free of the worry of providing for his family now and 10 years from now.

The Jays gain a coveted roster spot, because let's face it - as used, Ruiz wasn't close to being an asset. But that's the rub, isn't it? I'd like to know the thought process in bringing Ruiz north with the team to be a once-a-week DH/pinch hitter..... because that made no sense.The strength of Ruiz was his ability to hit the ball. Did he even own a glove? It was an awkward arrangement for all, as it was becoming painful to watch the slugger swing at anything close in an attempt to win over the manager in his limited appearances.

And the fans.....well, we're freed as much as Randy was. With his scorching "tryout" to close out '09, we were all left to wonder what could be if Ruiz were finally given the necessary major league at-bats to show what he could do. Hell, the manager himself was fond of saying that Ruiz could hit 30 home runs given the at-bats.